How many times do we tell ourselves. “I’m not crafty,” or “I’m not an artist.” How often does life get in the way of our hopes and dreams as we say NO to a new creative experience?
This year I decided it was time to do some things for me – for the mama in the family. Instead of being so caught up in life, medical appointments, and my long to do list – I needed to fit more joyful experiences into my daily life.
Finding daily and weekly joy and focusing more on self-care has become my new mantra.
Those that know me will be surprised to hear, I’ve learned how to quilt!
Before my beginner’s quilting class, I’d NEVER used a sewing machine. Seriously! I didn’t think quilting was in my wheel house. But my curious side, the part that has always wanted to learn how to sew, was intrigued.
My friend convinced me to take the class and then helped me find a sewing machine on Facebook Marketplace. My mother-in-law drove with me to check out the sewing machine and then showed me how to thread my needle, and fill and set my bobbin.
I practiced sewing in a straight line for two hours before our first class. My first words to our instructor were, “I’m going to be your favorite student, because I need the most help!”
It was more fun and more difficult than I expected. I enjoyed learning a new skill and getting together with my two friends for three hours every week as we learned how to make a sampler quilt. It was fun having a set appointment and chance to get together with friends.
There were moments when the thread got tangled and resembled a nest. My friends would hold their laughter back, as I muttered under my breath, or declared, “I hate this and I’m not having fun.” They would encourage me to be patient and say, “You’re doing great, remember you’re just learning!”
Eventually my blocks were finished, the sashing was completed and my quilt was sent to be quilted. And then, our patient teacher and my two friends laughed loudly, when I discovered I had to hand-sew the binding.
Learning how to quilt allowed me to make myself a priority. I stepped away from my responsibilities for three hours each week and invested in a new form of self-care. I created a beautiful quilt that I love – but the creation of the quilt was not the goal.
Self-care through time with friends as we picked up a new skill and proved we are still evolving was the ultimate goal. And finally, realizing there is a long list of fun, joyful self-care items that I’m excited to experience.
I’d love to hear about what you’re doing to bring yourself joy on your self-care journey!
What is one thing you can do in the next week or month for yourself?